International Trade

Trade is vital to the prosperity of the EU. Freer trade means better market access for European goods abroad and more choice for consumers domestically.

European automobile manufacturers are global companies, they exported 5.9 million motor vehicles in 2017, generating a €90.3 billion trade surplus. The industry therefore firmly supports the EU in its trade negotiation programme, and encourages international trade deals that provide mutual benefits and shared rewards for the industry at home and for partners abroad.

The European automotive industry is in favour of further trade liberalisation. Trade agreements can foster innovation, growth and prosperity for the EU and for partner countries. In order to reinforce competitiveness, ACEA supports trade agreements that are reciprocal, free and fair, and that create a level playing field. ACEA also calls on policy makers to align trade policy and industrial policy in order to create the conditions for a strong industrial sector.

Exports are key to sustaining millions of jobs in the automotive industry and range of other sectors. They help ‘fly the flag’ for Europe, and give the bloc’s industry a standard-setting role in foreign markets.

Current negotiations

The EU is currently engaged in a number of free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations. Some agreements have already been concluded, while others are still being discussed. European industry follows each of these negotiations with interest.